1998 M3 Ignition

Hello all,

I'm looking at a 98 4 door M3 (Yellow). There is one concern that I'm hoping you all can help with resolve. The ignition will rotate 360 degrees (and not engage ignition process) if the key is not fully inserted into the cyclinder. Once fully inserted into the cylinder, it works just fine. The current owner states that this is normal for that car. I compared that to my wife's 02 Z3 and hers does not do that. I'm in ND and we have no BMW dealers in the state, I'm hoping you all can help me determine if this is normal for theat model or if it's an ignition switch going bad. I would hate to encounter a hefty repair bill down the road.

Thanks!!

Mario

I would say it has to be a problem, I've never heard of that.
I'd check the M3 forums, though.

That isn't normal at all mate

I recon one of the little plastic clips has broken in the cylinder. Does happen....

You can replace it yourself, here is a fantastic DIY from SilverBMW528 buddy - http://www.bimmerfest.com/forums/sho...+barrel&page=2